Save our sanctuary

We need your help to Save our Sanctuary.

The sanctuary has lost over 100k of income over peak season, vital money that keeps the animals fed and warm over winter, when our electric bill alone tops 3k, let alone feed and vet bills etc.

The Ark is home to over 250 animals that may have had to be put down or left abandoned had the Ark not stepped in to help.  From crocodiles in bath tubs, Raccoon dogs found wandering loose to a fox that was asked to be put down by its previous owner, as well as a Savannah cat seized by the authorities and many many more.

In these uncertain times we have no income but extremely high ongoing costs. All staff have been furloughed from the start of lockdown leaving just ourselves and our kids to look after the animals, meaning 12-14 hour days every single day for the last 3 months and still a way to go.

Unlike many businesses impacted we cannot simply 'switch off the lights' even if we are closed our expenses are pretty much the same and runs to many thousands  of pounds a week. You can't just furlough a raccoon.

Although the go ahead has been given that zoos can open it's simply not a quick fix for us. Not only does it take time to put plans in place as there are only two of us but with current restrictions still in place on indoor areas it is not viable to open the site due to needing to reduce the entrance fee.

This is going to be a long road for the Ark and we will do everything we can to continue to care for these animals as we were their last chance but it is a very worrying time.

Even during lockdown the Ark hasn't just been caring for the resident animals but also helping with urgent rescue cases.

The Ark is unique in the assistance we provide with animals that have nowhere else to go and the next few months are critical to the 250 animals that are already here living happily, and will impact any future rescues.

Thanks for reading and thanks for any assistance you can give.